A NEW task force has been launched in the fight against boozy troublemakers in Leigh town centre.

Leigh Town Centre Safe Scheme will crack down on crime and disorder with a number of measures including better lighting and CCTV camera surveillance, an on-street alcohol ban, a late night bus service and stronger links with licencees.

The scheme is a partnership of Wigan Council, councillors, police, publicans, security staff and locals and is based on a tried and tested scheme in Wigan.

A proof of age scheme has been introduced along with door staff regulation and training and staggered licensing hours.

Leigh already has an on-street alcohol ban but community safety chief Harry Holden said the partnership would consider further measures and the scheme would be tailored to suit Leigh's particular needs.

Insp Bill Dyke of Leigh police said: "We want the town to be a place where people can relax and have a good time.

"The last thing our officers want is to be continually dealing with assaults and drunkenness."